With higher-end CPUs and big SSDs, prices could hit $2000, the company added.

Not only that, we'd add, but Apple is one of the world's biggest consumers of Flash chips, primarily for iPhones, iPods and iPads, but no doubt increasingly for laptop SSDs. It can use volume purchasing to get low, low prices other manufacturers can't match.

Bottom line: Apple is in a stronger position than most other computer vendors to spread SSDs throughout its product range and keep the price down - not too far, mind; Apple doesn't want to lose its laptops 'premium' status - the better to compete with rival products that will look a lot like its Air family. ®